Metropolis Building Madrid
An iconic 1911 Beaux-Arts masterpiece on Gran Vía, crowned by a gilded goddess statue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Metropolis Building Madrid
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 1911 Beaux-Arts masterpiece on Gran Vía, crowned by a gilded goddess statue.
"A truly magnificent building that defines the grandeur of Gran Vía."
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the Metropolis Building from various angles on Gran Vía. Early morning offers fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
🚶♀️ Free City Exploration
Utilize Madrid's free bus lines 001 and 002 to get close to the Metropolis Building and other sights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gilded Cupola
Rooftop
Marvel at the iconic winged goddess atop the building, a symbol of Metropolis.
Beaux-Arts Architecture
Exterior
Admire the intricate details and grandeur of this early 20th-century architectural masterpiece.
Gran Vía Views
Surrounding streets
Experience the building's majestic presence as it anchors the vibrant Gran Vía.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Metropolis
Getting Around Madrid
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the Metropolis Building from various angles on Gran Vía. Early morning offers fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
🚶♀️ Free City Exploration
Utilize Madrid's free bus lines 001 and 002 to get close to the Metropolis Building and other sights. +1
💰 Save on Transport
Avoid expensive taxis; opt for ride-sharing apps like Uber or Cabify for better rates around the city. +1
✨ Admire from Afar
The Metropolis Building is best viewed from the street. While you can't typically enter, its exterior is the main attraction.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the Metropolis Building from various angles on Gran Vía. Early morning offers fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
🚶♀️ Free City Exploration
Utilize Madrid's free bus lines 001 and 002 to get close to the Metropolis Building and other sights. +1
💰 Save on Transport
Avoid expensive taxis; opt for ride-sharing apps like Uber or Cabify for better rates around the city. +1
✨ Admire from Afar
The Metropolis Building is best viewed from the street. While you can't typically enter, its exterior is the main attraction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Metropolis Building's stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and iconic gilded cupola. Its prominent location on Gran Vía makes it a must-see landmark. While interior access is limited, its exterior beauty and contribution to Madrid's skyline are widely appreciated.
"The Metropolis Building in Madrid is a stunning example of Beaux Arts architecture, located at the corner of Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá. Built in 1911, it’s famous for its elegant white façade, ornate details, and black dome crowned with a golden statue. Though not open to the public, it’s a popular photo spot and a must-see for anyone exploring central Madrid. You can see this iconic building when reach city center (:"
Anıl KARADAVUT
"Very nice architecture! Towering structure right in front of the main junction. Amazing place! Do visit and click photos here. Recommended!"
Sujay Sreekumar
"One of the most recognisable buildings in Madrid, marking the beginning of the popular Gran Via street in the center of the city. It’s a stunning building, but is more popular for the outside than the inside."
Mathew Love
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Metropolis Building is located on Gran Vía. You can easily reach it via the Madrid Metro (stations like Gran Vía or Callao are nearby). Alternatively, take advantage of Madrid's free bus lines 001 and 002, which stop at many central attractions. +1
Street parking in central Madrid is very limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing apps. The nearest metro stations are Gran Vía and Callao.
Yes, if you are staying in central Madrid, walking to the Metropolis Building is a great option. It's situated on the bustling Gran Vía, making it easily accessible on foot from many popular areas.
Absolutely! Madrid offers free bus lines 001 and 002 that run through the city center and pass by many key landmarks, including the vicinity of the Metropolis Building. +1
For efficient and budget-friendly travel, use the metro or the free bus lines 001 and 002. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are also good alternatives to taxis. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Metropolis Building is an exterior landmark. You can admire its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and gilded cupola from the street without needing any tickets.
Typically, the Metropolis Building is not open for public interior tours. Its primary appeal is its magnificent exterior architecture and its prominent location on Gran Vía.
As an exterior landmark, the Metropolis Building can be viewed at any time. However, for the best photographic opportunities and a more pleasant experience, consider visiting during daylight hours or early evening.
There is no entrance fee to view the Metropolis Building from the outside. It's a free landmark to appreciate as part of your exploration of Madrid.
While the building itself is primarily an architectural marvel, its location on Gran Vía means it's often part of city-wide events or celebrations. Check local listings for any special occasions.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light. The building is also striking when illuminated at night.
The most iconic views are from Gran Vía itself. Experiment with different angles, including from the side streets, to capture its full grandeur.
Yes, with good lighting and composition, your phone camera can capture excellent photos of the Metropolis Building. Consider using a wide-angle lens if available to fit more of the facade.
Yes, several rooftop bars along Gran Vía offer fantastic views. The Círculo de Bellas Artes is highly recommended for its panoramic city views, which often include the Metropolis Building.
For daytime shots, use a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. For evening shots, a tripod and longer exposure will be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Originally named after its owner, the building was later acquired by the Metropolis insurance company, hence its enduring name. Its prominent location on Gran Vía, a major artery of Madrid, ensures it remains a focal point for both locals and tourists. The architectural grandeur of the Metropolis Building makes it a must-see for anyone interested in urban design and historical landmarks.
While the interior is not typically accessible to the public, the exterior alone is a masterpiece. The visual impact of the building, especially when illuminated at night, is truly breathtaking. It's a key element in the iconic skyline of Gran Vía, contributing significantly to the street's vibrant and historic atmosphere.
Metropolis on Gran Vía
Its presence on Gran Vía offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to combine sightseeing. You can admire the Metropolis Building while exploring the street, perhaps stopping for churros at the nearby San Ginés chocolate shop or enjoying the views from a rooftop bar. The energy of Gran Vía complements the architectural splendor of the Metropolis Building, creating a memorable urban experience.
Many visitors find that simply walking along Gran Vía and taking in the sights, including the Metropolis Building, is a highlight of their trip. The street is a constant hive of activity, offering endless photo opportunities and a true taste of Madrid's cosmopolitan spirit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit